And here are some more review replies:
But before I start on the actual replies: berlin88, I am overwhelmed… such a review… a dream.
Nedy Rahn, thank you so much for your PM's, I intend to put some of that to good use, though not in this chapter…, you'll see.
Berlin88: I am sorry and yes you are right, the involvement of the other nations was barely shown in the battle (with the exception of the Chinese) but I can say so much, that the Tau'ri did not only use the squadrons aboard the BC-304s, but also several more squadrons based on Earth and built by the other IOA nations. To point nine, stop guessing so well! No, honestly currently only the USA and the Chinese have a 304 as the story is canon until Unending (more or less). Germany is not involved –Yet (I am German so…I hope you'll forgive me). The current world situation…just wait and see! Also yes, a world government is not going to happen, at least not yet- more about this in this chapter. Point ten- stop guessing so well!! You my friend have earned the right to request something to be added.
Dur'id the Druid: What's wrong with showing up and writing long reviews with questions? Nothing!! In fact keep it up. To your various questions. 1.: Yes for the sake of the story (no nuking Earth this time), 2.: I believe that Earth does not have so many naquada enhanced nukes, this was just the conventional weaponry (which should be mentioned sometimes. This planet does actually have the ability to nuke itself 50-times over! Without Naquada enhanced nukes! Ahh, we love'em , you know it!) 3.:Gina will show up, but I obviously couldn't put her into CiC, she has a different job onboard Pegasus. Cookie to you, and if you wish for something to see, I'll see what I can do.
Gespenter Jager: Simply because they decided to land in the USA: And well, the USA is the most single powerful and influential country on Earth. And the IOA has its seat in the USA. And using Biological weapons or chemical ones, Well...they are not sooo far gone that the people of Earth will want to exterminate them (anyway we pride ourselves of having the moral high ground ;))
ElldenStorm: Ethinc cleansing...whoah...not even I came up with the idea…well we'll see. And yes, Cain is currently quite pissed off at how this operation has been botched so spectacularly.
Anotamous: Gunships of Earth- sorry that was me being lazy, it's basically the heavy fighter helicopters such as the Apache. Day. About 8'oclock EST. And yes, I'll think up some colonial armour, though the colonials have a different approach to war (remember where the Cylons came from?)
45jacky: If you've read the chapters carefully, (wait have I written that...mm I'll go back and check) then you'll know that those forces were only the first wave. The ones sent to establish a beachhead so to speak. There are millions more waiting to be unleashed (honestly not even the colonials are THAT incompetent).
Nedy Rahn: I've never played CoD: MW2(not my type of game). But I remember you using it as a template in one of your own stories, didn't you? Still I must admit that I have absolutely no idea how the real- life situation is pertaining to the deployment of each regiment, battalion, brigade, division or corps.
Vampiric Ant: True to a part, but President Adar garnered a lot of votes from the conservatives (Sagittarrons and Gemenese especially) and he's not the most popular person at home at the moment. And while it is no Theocracy, Religion plays a far heavier role in their everyday life than it does in most of the lives of the humans and Earth. So for some you use the bad Earth guys killed our guys routine, let's go on a vengeance strike, the conservatives say it's a crusade for the gods (and lets face it, add religion to an angry mob and well… not pretty, plus the fact that the twelve gods of Kobol are the ONLY religion allowed to be practised, and definitely no monotheism!) and I've explained the motives behind the admiralty. For them it's good old greed (except Dravere, he's a nutjob fundamentalist backed by politicians. Not a good idea!)
Superior Shortness: No the nuclear strike was only aimed at the USA.
Trife: Well, the original battle against the renegade Ori ( and against the Colonials later on) took place a few hundred thousand kilometres away from Earth, so a cover up would have been possible. The Invasion fleet though, practically parked straight outside the atmosphere only a few hundred kilometres high.
By the way, welcome to politics (though I hope to include some action scenes too…)
And yes, you can see that this is set here and now, in 2010 in opposition as to 2007 which is when the end of episode of SGA and season 10 of SG-1 is set.
Chapter four: Repercussions and decisions
0615 hrs (MST- forty five minutes earlier) SGC, Cheyenne Mountain.
As the alarm glared the two occupants of the bed jerked up, instantly knowing that is was it, the renegade Ori ships had arrived and a fleet, deadlier than any other that Earth had yet faced now prepared to destroy their small fleet and before subjugating this one planet that had never given up and that had even found a way to defeat beings with powers akin to gods.
Vala mal Doran snuggled closer to Daniel Jackson and leant into his arms.
Daniel could practically feel the fear she was radiating and he made soft soothing noises and motions trying to calm her.
Giving her a peck on her forehead, Vala looked up into the face of theman holding her and smiled sadly.
"By now the battle will have begun. And Sam and Cameron and General O'Neill will be fighting and maybe dying and we can do nothing but wait. I am scared Daniel. Just waiting and knowing that only four ships are defending this planet and knowing that our friends are up there and we are down here knowing…It's just… after everything we've went through, I thought we were at peace and that the followers of the Ori had been defeated, and now this…, I mean what will you do if they build up a proper empire here? Go to war? Invade every single planet they have taken? "Lines of worry seemed to be etched into Vala's face and suddenly she seemed to deflate.
"Vala mal Doran, "Daniel said "Look at me. I do not know what we will do should we be faced with a renegade Ori empire. But I know this. We will fight for ourselves and for our allies' freedom. And yes, I am worried about my friends too, but they promised to be back, and I believe them. And Vala…I will not leave you. You've become very dear to me in the last months, so please cheer up!" And he leaned forward and gave her another soft kiss on her forehead.
"Right, now that you've had your angsty session, could we please get up, dear? I do not know about you, but I promised General Landry to help packing for evacuation. Coming, dear?" Daniel asked his girlfriend mockingly. Rising in indignation she picked up a cushion and threw it at him, hitting him squarely. Daniel just laughed, gathered his clothes and went to the showers. A few seconds later, Vala also laughed, her good mood restored and also went to the showers.
One quick shower later and still chortling they made their way to the briefing room.
"Daniel Jackson, Vala Mal Doran." Came the deep stoic voice of Teal'C, who greeted them with a nod.
"Ah, Dr. Jackson, Vala, good morning. Coffee?"
"General Landry, Teal'C, and yes, I think I'd really like a cup of coffee." Daniel returned the greeting.
Being seated and sipping his coffee, Daniel then asked how the battle was progressing and whether they should prepare for evacuation.
With a sigh General Landry activated the new holographic display that showed the disposition of everything happening in Earth's orbit (the counterpart to the ones in The White House, The Kremlin, Number 10 Downing Street, the palais republique and the Chinese headquarters).
What they saw nearly made Daniel spit out his coffee. Remembering that such behaviour was bad form, he managed to hold it in, but the act forced him into a hacking cough, making his wide open eyes water.
Vala absentmindedly patted his back, but her own eyes were nearly bugging out. There on the table was a live feed of the battle, but the scale surpassed everything they had ever seen as not only had the Ori arrived, but also a fleet of different origin.
"As you can see, the situation is somewhat more complicated than we anticipated. A second fleet has appeared which has its origin in the Cyrannus system. Yes, Dr. Jackson, you may recall them as the Twelve Colonies of Kobol. Now their appearance is a problem, because while on the one hand they are helping us, however unwillingly, by getting into the way of the Ori ships, there are a lot of them here. Still, the way the battle is going, Jack seems to be able to make both sides kill each other, with us finishing of the survivors. Yes, Dr. Jackson?"
"Have the colonials made any attempt to communicate with us and ha-…" here he was cut off by Vala.
"Hello? Could someone please tell me who these Twelve Colonies of Kobol are?"
Turning towards Vala, Daniel spoke.
"The Twelve Colonies of Kobol are a group of people who believe that there are thirteen tribes of man, and that humanity originated on the planet of Kobol a few thousand years ago. Their religious texts, which were given to us, when we made contact with them about two and a half years ago, speak of an exodus by the tribes of man from Kobol about two thousand years ago. Of the thirteen, twelve made their way to their current location, where they divided themselves into twelve tribes. Each tribe settled one of the many habitable moons in the system, which they named after the signs of the Zodiac. The thirteenth though, made their way to Earth. Technologically speaking they are about a generation ahead of the outside world in some areas, while in others they are hopelessly behind, even to the outside world. They are also several generations ahead, when it comes to spaceflight, as they have their own method of FTL. All in all they are an interesting group of people, and we had high hopes, that we may have stumbled upon a potentially very close ally. But then the twin issues of religion and history came up, and let's just say that there are people there who would give the Ori a run for fanaticism. Oh no, many of them were quite nice, but we felt we had overstayed our welcome, when we noticed just how much influence these conservatives had. We tried to tell them how nice it had been to meet them and such, but that we now had to leave. That was when we were arrested for blasphemy against the gods and for inciting heretical and rebellious thoughts. Jack who was on this mission with the Prometheus by accident, started thinking how nostalgic that felt, and well we then busted out, fled from the planet and in the process destroyed several of their ships which were in our way. This means they probably see us as their wayward brethren who need to be brought the light of true faith."
"And this when there are the Ori around? Wow, these guys are good. To successfully merge Goa'uld and Ori antics, and then come attacking you, now that's something!" Vala said trying not to laugh, but failing miserably.
Daniel too smiled, but instantly became serious again. "True their ships are outclassed, when compared to ours. We are actually lucky that they jumped into the battle we have been having with the Ori, as the colonials have a similar mindset as we do, when in space combat, and that means nukes. And with the amount of ships they've got, I doubt that we could have prevented the nuking from orbit by them." General Landry quickly intervened before Daniel had been able to reply to Vala's jest.
"Anyway, regarding the evacuation, as you can see, the battle is going quite well, and we may yet win…at least against the Ori, which is the most important thing, as the colonials have no idea of the stargate. Still, we'd better prepare for all eventualities. Dr. Jackson, miss Mal Doran, Teal'c if you could-" suddenly his communication device beeped and Landry's face turned ashen.
Turning his head so fast that his neck seemed to creak he turned and zoomed into a particular spot on the battlefield.
Looking at the information displayed before him, he could see that it was true, both the Sun Tzu and Deadalus had been hit hard and were limping out of battle.
"Dr. Jackson, Vala, Teal'C, I know that all three of you have at least rudimentary training in first aid. We have a crisis. Both the Daedalus and the Sun Tzu have been hit hard. They'll be starting to beam the casualties down any minute now. Go and help Carolyn, the orbital battle is more or less won, it seems we won't have to evacuate today after all."
All three had noticed his changed demeanour and had seen the information displayed, which announced the news.
Immediately the got up and ran to the infirmary, where Dr. Carolyn Lam, the SGC's CMO was already getting beds ready and trying to create new bunks for the wounded, if necessary on the floor.
Seeing the three enter Lam began directing them move non-critical patients into other rooms and to get additional medical supplies.
Vala had just returned with an armful of saline drip bags and bandages when suddenly a hum sounded and a white light filled the corridor. When the light had receded there were suddenly over a hundred men and women in the corridors and in the infirmary.
Finding herself suddenly in the midst of people where there had been an empty corridor just a moment before Vala was shocked a little.
Then the screams and moans hit her ears and then the sight and especially the smell.
It was horrendous.
The wounds caused in the battle against the colonials were horrendous. Many of the people beamed down had been hideously burnt, and the smell of roasting flesh filled Vala's nose. Just ahead of her lay a man whose entire back was burnt exposing the pink, raw flesh, seared by the heat, others had large lacerations or were cut over and over where crystals had exploded showering them with shrapnel.
Covering her mouth in horror, all flippancy gone, Vala surveyed the scene. Then she took a deep breath, wincing as the smell hit her nose again, suppressed her rising gorge and hurried to her destination.
This was going to be a very long day.
1315 hrs (GMT) bridge of the Odyssey
General O'Neill was looking at the aftermath of the massive battle that had just finished minutes before, with the second colonial fleet having surrendered after being bathed with nuclear fire. O'Neill actually was impressed at that. He hadn't really ever thought of using Earth's nuclear arsenal and certainly not on this scale. It had been impressive, and the colonials were exactly the right recipients, seeing as their technology was just so far ahead that they had a chance to hit them, even with conventional weapons.
And yet, O'Neill had a deep seated sense of failure when he looked outside at the wreckage field and the dozens of crippled and mangled enemy ships.
They had failed, the enemy had managed to land ground troops on Earth and now they would have to deal with disclosure being announced in the most brutal way imaginable, at the hands of an invading foe.
Turning around he signalled for Marks.
"Marks contact The White House. Tell the president and the assembled generals there, that were beaming them out. DC won't be able to hold if the colonials move fast, and evacuation by air is out of the question, so we'll beam them out. Make the Mess hall ready into a meeting place; I need to report to General Hammond, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and of course the president. I then want you to get a connection to that Admiral Cain out there and tell her to meet me on board the Odyssey in an hour. Three of their gunboats, no missiles, no ordinance, no nothing, just the admiral and two aides plus the pilots; the other two can pick up the ejected enemy fighters we picked up. Tell her, that one wrong move and we'll blow the fleet to hell, am I understood?"
Seeing Marks nod in understanding, he turned heading of the bridge. "I need to debrief Carter and Mitchell before the president gets here tell them to meet in my cabin. Colonel Davidson, you have the bridge." With that he turned and exited the bridge.
Arriving at his cabin he saw that Mitchell and Carter were already there, quietly conversing with each other. Seeing him they both hastily threw out a "Sir!", though Carter's was accompanied with a bright smile at.
Nodding and standing them at ease he opened the door and ushered them in. Once inside he turned and asked resignedly. "Well, what do we do now? Looks like the cat's out of the bag. But first things first. Tell me about the battle. Mitchell you first."
"Sir, " he nodded acknowledging his Superior's order, "we're in a bit of a fix. We outpace the colonial fighters by a considerable margin, and our fighter is also tougher than theirs, though that may only be because of the difference in weapons effectiveness. The problem though is, that in a straight up dogfight here in space, where we can't use our speed, we're liable to get slaughtered. In an environment concentrated on a relatively small compressed space they can outmanoeuvre us, as they are capable of doing on the spot 180° turns. Our advantages are speed, the durability of our fighters, our weapons load – they don't carry anti-fighter missiles- and our inertial dampeners. If they do too many risky manoeuvres the pilot is liable to get squashed. Still it is a good design, and most importantly a dedicated space superiority fighter. Their advantages are their incredible manoeuvrability as well as their numbers. They had us outnumbered with at least 20- to- one. If we go against them in a straight up battle, we'd better find a way to install energy weapons on our fighters, otherwise we'll be constantly returning to the fleet for rearming."
O'Neill nodded, he trusted Mitchell on his accounts, the man was a great pilot after all, and one of the most combat experienced pilots Earth had for the F- 302. Next was Carter.
"Sir, the Odyssey is indeed still battle worthy, though we will desperately need to take on new ammunition. If it came to battle now, we'd have nearly no rail gun ammo and no nukes. Only the Asgard weapon and sir I must take a look at the weapon. This battle has seen an extensive use of our energy weapon, and we don't want it to malfunction. Even so we will have to replace some crystals and quite a few shorted out energy lines, the continuous impacts on the shields have stressed the ship. On the other hand this battle clearly showed how excellently our ships hold out, even against different kinds of threats impacting it.
As of the tactical situation against for a future encounter with the colonials, I can only recommend building up our arsenal of energy weapons. Nukes are not very effective in an initial engagement, thanks to their heavy fighter cove and flak fields. And while yes, we could probably singlehandedly destroy the colonial fleet, we have a problem of mass. Even our shields will not be able to stop the force of a battlestar ramming us for instance. Sir we need more ships." Carter finished with an urgent undertone in her voice.
Interrupting, Mitchell spoke up.
"Sam, can't we just beam nukes into their ships, like we did to the Wraith a few times?"
"Yes, we can, but if you remember the Wraith then reacted by utilizing a jamming technique, which rendered the idea obsolete. We need to have a look at their military technology and see whether they will be able to jam our beaming signals. For now though, I recommend that the only people who get to see the technology working are our POWs."
"Yeah, about them… any idea where we could put them. Because those ships are likely to have thousands of wounded on board, and probably nowhere near enough space and medical personnel, which means we have to intervene, which is a problem because they've managed to land troops on the surface. And no, I am not beaming them away. It'd be impossible anyway, as we'd have no idea who to lock on as everybody down there is a human. With the Jaffa it was easy, they are genetically altered and they had snakes living inside of them, meaning they could be singled out, but these are humans we're talking about so a big NO-No, we've got to do this the hard way, with ground troops."
Jack O'Neill despondently said, the problems now rearing their ugly head, appearing huge and threatening before him.
"Sir, you've come up with a good point though. We should really have a look at their DNA to determine when the split originated and how much genetic drift has happened." Carter quickly said.
"Good. Mitchell you get your ship armed and ready and take out our fighters on a small patrol. Have a closer look at their ships will you, when you're finished come back in and you can rest, but make sure you and your fellow pilots are ready to scramble for the time being, should anybody else show up. Carter, you put together a team and repair the Odyssey. She's the main priority now. Okay get to it." With that O'Neill and the others rose and left the small cabin.
Making his way to the mess, he was greeted by a pair of marines that stood guard outside. Saluting them, he stepped through the door and presented himself.
Inside wee the president and his entourage and after a quick round of greetings O'Neill began.
"Sirs, Mr. President, the situation is as follows. We have won the space battles, but we recorded several enemy craft jumping out, using their kind of FTL. Now we could start a counter offensive but I would advise against that. Both the Sun Tzu and the Daedalus are heavily damaged and will need extensive reconstruction. Even the Odyssey and the Apollo will need to be looked over, though if they have to, they can still operate their Asgard PPCd. Our fighters sustained quite heavy losses and will not be able to adequately cover the planet in conjuncture with just two ships. Additionally one renegade Ori ship managed to jump away. I would also point out that only the appearance of the colonial fleet saved our ships from being vaporised by the renegade former Ori. Then there is the problem that over a hundred ships have surrendered, of which at least sixty are military vessels. We can expect thousands, if not tens of thousands of wounded on board these ships. Their commander, an Admiral Helena Cain, who surrendered the assault fleet will be arriving here shortly so that we may work something out. The thing is that with disclosure being inevitable and no major damage done to the planet by them, you can bet that other countries will pressure us into helping them as is stated in the Geneva Convention, even though we are currently fighting a war on our own soil. Sir if you want to hear my opinion, then we are screwed and screwed badly. Our fleet has taken a severe beating and the political fallout is something, I don't even want to think about."
Silence greeted these words. Then the president spoke up addressing Jack.
"General O'Neill what would be your advice on what to do now with disclosure coming up."
"Sir, the USA is one of the most hated countries in the world, at least in some parts. This works in our favour actually. But with the state the world is in… Sir, the United Nations need to quickly relocate, as New York could easily fall, as of now there are only a few units to oppose the invaders. You will also need to make a speech that anybody who possesses a gun should hide the gun and not shoot at the invaders otherwise we might be looking at a wholesale sale slaughter as the millions of person who have guns get executed as insurgents or partisans. Tell them, that if they want to fight, that they should assemble somewhere to form militias or something or join the army or whatever, just given them some sort of legitimacy. The people should not work for the invaders but be polite and stay calm." Here guffaws were heard at this proposal. O'Neill simply shrugged and said that it was worth a shot, before continuing.
"Mr. President we also have to immediately contact countries willing and able to share the burden with us and to fight with us. Foremost of these are Germany, Japan and Canada as the remaining member of the G8. We should also contact India, Brazil and Australia as important allies and up and coming states. True the Chinese won't like the Japanese joining up and be given alien technology, but right now, with the Sun Tzu heavily damaged; WE have orbital supremacy, something you should mention. Also contact a few more countries for preliminary talks, such as the countries in the EU who currently have problems regarding their financial stability or who are a bit too small for the first group of included countries, but who have the right technological level to participate, such as Italy, Spain or the Scandinavian countries or Poland. Also a few South American countries and one or two African countries, predominately South Africa should be contacted.
There are a few countries that should NOT get any assistance. For instance Israel, as they are getting ever more radical in the last few years, deliberately building those settlements or many of the African countries who have dictators. Giving them naquada is a recipe for disaster. Also we now have the larger Stick to use against Iran and North Korea, as we possess orbital supremacy and can use Asgard sensors. We are in the driving seat, and we need to exploit this now and that also means keeping the Chinese down at the moment, as they are strategically opposed to us on Earth and have connection to many of these more unsavoury characters. If they leak out any tech we're soon going to have World War three on our hands at the most inopportune time possible and the technology issue also means that every ship that we build should be able to be tracked, so that no one gets any funny ideas and sets up his own colonies somewhere as a secondary power base, although again I'd suspect primarily the Russians and the Chinese to do so."
Hearing this piece of political analysis the other generals winced, as every bit he had said was true. The IOA would have to share its technology, but if the technology was share, then there was more potential for it to be utilized in the wrong hands. And there were many on Earth that hated the USA and its allies and wanted them to fall.
"We've got to go and throw the Chinese a bone, to prevent them from spreading the technology they possess and to allow the economic weight of Japan to join us. Maybe an Admiral's post or command of a new base. From a strategic point of view though, the invasion of Earth was the best that could have happened to use in the long run. We will disclose the Stargate project and gain thousands of workers and machines to ship to our bases. This is essential, because we are not capable of fighting a protracted war, and certainly not against two enemies. Earth is still incredibly vulnerable and with our own resources stretched so thinly we must suspend any offensive action. We can only act defensively at the moment while we build up forces and try to sort out the mess here at home. Another problem is that we are facing two enemies with two completely different techbases. The Colonials are rather primitive in their military technology compared to what the SGC possesses, but they do have a tactical advantage, and that is their damn FTL. They like nukes and with their FTL they could jump past our ships and nuke the surface. We need to protect against such a possibility. The renegade former Ori though have a similar techbase as our and as such, will not be held up by a defensive satellite grid, they will have to be defeated head on. The only idea that I have is by building large enough space station and arming them with shields that we might defeat them, though, once fired I cannot see how their beam weapon can be intercepted."
"Thank you again General for this detailed analysis. You have given me a lot to think about. Though I think that should we move fast enough, we might counter the Chinese. Would it be possible to use your communications array to contact my diplomats in the respective countries? I will also give the order to evacuate the United Nations building and ask them to relocate to Europe, specifically Brussels where they will receive a full explanation. It will also send a strong message to others that we seek the help of our European allies as the relationship has been strained in the last few months. We need to inform the first group before the official disclosure and secure their approval and support" President Hayes answered already planning on how this situation was still able to work in their favour.
Subtly wincing and giving the other generals a glance that spoke volumes about how glad he was to have other duties, especially as his comlink beeped and major Marks informed him that the Colonial delegation was arriving and he was required in the port hangar. Excusing himself he turned with military precision and walked out of the room trying to hide his smirk, to whispered "lucky bastard" coming from the other generals who had to stay and play politics with the president.
Arriving in the port hangar O'Neill saw that three craft were just coming through the force field. The three craft seemed to look a bit like a fighter-helicopter with its tail saw off. He liked it.
Stepping out of the three craft were a group of medics and a female officer with two soldiers in body armour but with only their sidearms at their side.
The officer had to be this Admiral Helena Cain, and Jack had to give it to her, she was striking. She had a haughty look and held herself ramrod straight as she came on board. But what intrigued him immensely were her eyes. They held so much possible violence in them, barely suppressed rage at someone and also more than just a hint of resignation and defeat. He instantly knew, this was a person to watch and to be very careful about.
CiC battlestar Pegasus one hour before
"Jurgen do we have a proper butcher's bill yet?" Cain was desperately trying to coordinate the remnants of her fleet, the ships were crippled and mangled, but that was not her immediate concern, far more important was to get a proper tally of which ships had been destroyed, which had escaped, and which were still here. Also how many Vipers and Raptors had survived the slaughter that had been the battle, and finally how many men and women were dead or wounded on each ship and what the state of the medical supplies was? Finally the first reports came in.
"Admiral Cain of the total of twenty four battlestars, two warstars and one hundred and four escorts that entered the battle, eleven battlestars and forty seven escorts have been destroyed, six battlestars, the warstar Hera and nineteen escorts are nothing more than mangled wrecks which will never be operable again. The remaining seven battlestars and the Zeus as well as thirty two escorts have been deemed salvageable though crippled, due to the destruction of their engines. Six escorts have managed to jump out. That covers the assault fleet. The invasion fleet-"
"Stop, Jurgen I don't care about the invasion fleet, we cannot help them anyway at the moment. They'll have to sort themselves out. What are Pegasus's losses?" Cain interrupted her XO quietly.
Belzen blinked, but quickly recovered himself and continued with his depressing list.
"Admiral, the Pegasus itself has lost 274 dead so far, with 439 wounded and a further 103 still unaccounted for. We've also lost 45 Vipers destroyed, though we were able to pick up eleven pilots who managed to eject. Twenty eight more will need to be scrapped as they are in a horrendous state. We've also lost thirteen raptors and will have to scrap five more. This leaves us with forty seven Vipers and six raptors operable. Far too few sir, to function well. Several guns have been destroyed, but our ship seems structurally sound. Sir, I would suggest parking all our vipers into the starboard flight pod, and try to get a few more out of the ones that would need to be scrapped. It'll give the engineers something to do and stop them from going really depressed. And another thing sir, many of the wounded will be able to return to duty with the next few days. All in all, the Pegasus has come out of this rather better than most. I've got reports of some ships having barely anyone fit enough for duty. With the diverting of all Vipers to one pod, we could free up the other to take in a few hundred wounded, about four hundred to six hundred if we really squeeze them, to take the pressure of other ships."
Nodding Cain replied glumly. "Do that will you. I've got the feeling that even with the ships that are a bit better off like the Pegasus, we'll need to do something really fast, or we'll soon have a few more thousand dead. I will take two marines in body armour but with only their sidearms and a dozen corpsmen in three raptors and go over to the Odyssey to discuss these and other things with their commanding officer, a General Jonathan O'Neill." Seeing her XO's raised eyebrows she wryly added. "They just asked me to come over while you were reading out that list. Tell the fleet that those ships capable to take surplus wounded are to do so, and that those ships with a surplus of wounded are to get in contact with those ships that can take them. Also get a more detailed butcher's bill by the time I come back. I want to have the Viper losses from every ship as well as the number of dead, wounded and unaccounted for."
Snapping of a sharp salute in acknowledgement of his orders Belzen began his work.
Cain looked around her CiC, and then ordered three raptors be made ready, stripped of their weapons. She also ordered a dozen corpsmen and the two marines to report to the port flight pod. Straightening up again, she left CiC and headed towards the flight pod. On the way down, she encountered many people trying to clear debris or just checking everything over and putting everything back where it belonged. Even though Pegasus had come through relatively well, she could see minor damages everywhere and many crewmembers sported minor cuts and bruises, but were already trying to get everything working, something that filled her with pride as she saw how well her crew were taking the aftermath of being in a titanic clash, furthermore one they had lost and were now very lucky to have survived.
Arriving at the flight pod she nodded as she received the men's salutes and climbed aboard the prepped raptor.
During the flight to Odyssey nobody spoke a word.
1400 hrs (GMT) starboard flight pod Odyssey
"Admiral Helena Cain: Permission to come aboard?" Advancing towards the most senior officer she could make out she stood to attention and saluted.
Returning her salute O'Neill gave permission and motioned her to follow him. Behind them the corpsmen loaded the wounded and ejected pilots that Odyssey had rescued into the raptors before launching back to Pegasus.
As they walked through the corridors of the battle cruiser Cain couldn't see any sign of major damage, which just hit home just HOW badly they had lost, and how tremendously effective the shielding system obviously was.
Entering a smaller room, that seemed to have been prepared for this meeting Helena Cain sat.
Opposite of her, the elderly men she had identified as the ranking officer sat.
"My name is Jonathan O'Neill, Brigadier- General in the United States Air Force and Supreme Commander of Earth's fleet and otherworldly operations. I am the man who received your surrender. There are several things we need to be clear of. Number one, the Colonies of Kobol did not sign the Geneva Convention on the treatment of POW's and the rules of engagement. But, we have graciously allowed for your men to be treated accordingly. Now the rules of engagement disapprove strongly on the use of nuclear weapons, and describe the use of biological and chemical as a war crime. In accordance with the treaties signed by the United States and its allies, we are beholden to treat any wounded combatant no matter the race, religion or nationality. This also compels us to try and minimize the losses on the civilian side, when we finally go against the Colonies. We are also beholden to treat any POW with adequate food, shelter and provide for medical treatment when needed as well as to provide for spiritual needs, though that is not exactly something we have to do, we will nonetheless provide for them- as long as the practices are acceptable. In response you and the other POW's are to give their word to not try and escape as well as to behave yourselves while in our care and that includes working with us when it comes to your wounded. Are these terms understood admiral?"
Cain just stared dumbfounded at her opposite. These terms were generous, way too generous, there just had to be a flaw, but when she looked into his face and saw only stony determination there she realized that what had just been said was actually the truth. Still she steeled herself and tried not to let her joy at such generous terms show on her face, the Colonies and Earth were still at war with each other.
"Very well, though I would like to know how you are going to fulfil your obligations towards our wounded. There are far too many of them as though we could treat ourselves. And from the size of your ships I cannot imagine that you can take in so many wounded." Seeing O'Neill openly laugh made her frown.
"Could you please tell me what is so funny? We are talking about the lives of thousands, if not tens of thousands of wounded here." Cain angrily exclaimed.
"Have you never wondered how we managed to save all those pilots, you just transported back to your ships? A friendly race gifted us with a piece of technology, which is able to literally transport a thing or a person from one place to another nearly instantaneous. We call it beaming. We will transport your wounded with this technology onto the surface so that our allies may take care of your wounded, as we still have to deal with your surface troops. On that note I would like you to speak to them, so that they may realize the futility of their fight and the hopelessness of their situation."
At this Cain let a small bitter smile show on her face.
"I will try and talk to their commanders, though I do not really think that it will help much. You see, the commanders of the first wave are cut from the same cloth as the commander of the invasion fleet. They are conservative hardliners, who see this as a rightful crusade for the Lords of Kobol to bring the wayward brethren into the fold and to eliminate the heretics and blasphemers. We expected initial resistance and so sent the most fanatic soldiers into the first face to break this resistance and to make the job easier for the following waves. Furthermore I am an Admiral of the Fleet and as such have no hold over Army ground forces. So even if I wanted to help you, and believe me I do, it will do no good as the commanders of the ground forces do not fall under my command. I can help you though by telling you what their objectives are and what they will do if orbital supremacy is temporarily lost. They will go to ground in heavily urbanized areas to prevent orbital bombardment. Furthermore we never truly expected to lose; "here a bitter laugh left her mouth before she continued" so their behaviour will be wholly unpredictable, though I suppose they will try to decapitate your government, to help their situation, indeed if they could capture your president, then a successful invasion becomes an option again."
O'Neill's face had become steadily grimmer as Cain explained the situation and he cursed the Colonies though he had to admit, albeit VERY grudgingly, that their plan was actually a good one and a ruthless one as well.
1450 hrs (MEZ) Berlin, Reichstag
The Bundestag was just in session debating on how the costs in the health department could be minimized, and just as a member of Die Linke was haranguing about how the ministry was under the thrall of the pharmaceutical industry when a young assistant suddenly appeared in the side entrance with a group of several people carrying a projector and a projecting canvas. The group hurried into the midst of the assembly and after the assistant had whispered a few words in the ears of the chairman, the group began the assembly of their device.
The chairman, Norbert Lammert, then called the house to order and explained that due to extraordinary circumstances the debate was postponed. This of course did not sit well with the opposition as they had only just begun their set of speeches against the ruling parties, but they all fell silent as the projector suddenly began to project pictures of gigantic ships floating down to Earth and obviously landing, they then heard the reporter speak.
"These pictures were made not two hours ago by our reporter Tim Hitchinson, as you can see these gigantic shapes, obviously ships with an estimated lengths of at least three miles have landed in several areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland and northern Virginia, several other, mostly smaller ships have also landed. Together with a still ongoing aerial battle we have reports of several counties reporting columns of armoured, marching men with trucks and some sort of lightly armoured pieces advancing into towns and securing them and placing them under martial law. Reports have also come in, that speak of these men claiming that they were on a holy crusade for some Lords of kooboul, Kolbol? Anyway, although we do not know of these Lords of …whatever, there have been several reports of exclamations that praised the old Greek pantheon of gods. The question no is of course, who are these Lords? Are they identical with those that the Greek worshipped and of course where do these people come from and where have they gotten such resources? This is Claire Duvall, CNN Washington DC." The screen changed and showed the CNN studio. A man in a business suit continued.
"Reports show that these troops have met no organised resistance yet, which involves greater numbers, yet fire fights have been reported to have occurred in several counties", here a map with the Colonials progress was shown with several counties which had already been completely overrun and over a dozen more were near succumbing with over twenty more already under attack all along the east coast. "A number of deaths has been reported and apparently the fighting is getting only fiercer. President Hayes has announced a speech to the state of the nation at midday from an as of now still undisclosed location"
As the reporter continued with his report, the Bundestag erupted into Chaos. It was quite clear what was happening.
The United States were at war with somebody and this somebody had invaded the country. Many of the politicians were rather unsure about what might happen, but the outrage that many felt was real. Even though some of them did not really like the USA, they all realized that if the single most powerful country in the world was under attack, then it would have grave consequences for the rest of the world, as could easily be seen at what happened after the September 11th attacks.
Nobody noticed the junior secretary moving towards the chancellor and whisper something in her ear. Going pale Angela Merkel, current chancellor of Germany rose and strode forward towards the speech podium.
In an unprecedented move she activated the microphone and spoke.
"Dear members of parliament, I have just received word that the President of the United States has just contacted the German administration and wishes to speak to us concerning the news. This is obviously a crisis that the American people face and that they wish for the assistance of their German allies. As such I would invite representatives of all parties to take part in these talks with the president, to show unity and to represent the entirety of the German people, as the announcement he as to make, will shake the very foundations of our beliefs, so the president has assured me."
'And just to make sure that no one can accuse you of being warmonger, can they as this will undoubtedly fall under the NATO article 5, which invokes military help from every member of the alliance should one member be attacked and call for assistance. Just as in Afghanistan…" many members of the opposition thought darkly, for they knew of course that Germany would be article-bound to assist the United States. And with the recent report that showed the shortcomings of the Bundeswehr…
The same time, Moscow, the Kremlin
President Dmitri Medwedew had ordered the military leaders of Russia to report as soon as the alarm was raised that Earth was under attack. Launching their F-302 squadrons they had watched the battle and had seen the arrival of the colonials and the subsequent landing.
As the Russian generals watched a foreign power actually invade the United States, they were stumped. But soon they saw the potential that it entailed. America was going to be far too busy to destroy the invaders in the next hours to notice anything they did. As the president ordered the mobilization of several divisions, 'in case the Americans needed help', the orders went out to demand access to the surrendered Colonial fleet, 'in accordance with the IOA treaty'. Anticipating the probable inclusion of Japan, Germany and Canada as the countries most likely to be contacted by the Americans, Russia drew up demands to sell their vote.
Russia would soon rise again…
The same time, underground complex, China
The Chinese were not stupid, they knew that disclosure was inevitable now, and that with disclosure, the stargate program would be exposed and more importantly grow. The assembled political and military cadres cursed. The attack had come at a most inopportune moment for China. Their plans had not progressed far enough to be successful and they could all imagine where these newcomers would come from. The United States still had the largest say in the program and with Britain and France staunch allies, and even the Russians being rather amiable towards them, the new nations would come from their allies' ranks, probably even NATO. In fact the Americans would probably also include the cursed Japanese. This could not be allowed! But with their only ship out of commission, and the view of China being not exactly the most favourable in the western world, including Chinese allies into the new group would be impossible, especially as China had large strategical investments in southern Asia as well as in large parts of Africa. And while these countries held high value in China's gathering of resources, as potential allies for the stargate program they were impossible. And giving away the technology to them in secret was pointless, as they did not have the expertise and most importantly the materials to build them. China was facing a dire stretch in interstellar operations. It seemed as though they would have to bide their time and accelerate the project…
1330 hrs (GMT) Mess room (temporary presidential office), Odyssey
"Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. President, I understand your objections and fears, but the fact remains. Both of your countries are members of the European Union, and you are both very important members in it. Yes, I will personally talk to the German representatives later to explain the situation we are in more detail, however Germany is your neighbour and as such you have more leeway with them. No, we will not hang you out to dry in the European community. Look, let me deal with Canada and Japan and you two deal with Germany. Yes, we will be giving them the technology. Thank you for your time, I will be addressing the world and the American public at 8 pm, local time today from the European parliament in Strasbourg. Thank you for your assistance." The screen blackened and Henry Hayes leant back with a sigh. Both the French and the British were not exactly overjoyed that they were to be the main contacts for the other members of the European Union concerning the new developments, especially not with an angry Germany on their doorstep.
"Get me a line to the German representatives will you please?" Seeing the connection established and being face to face with several dozen politicians he began.
"Dear Mrs Chancellor Merkel what I am telling you now is something that has been of utmost secrecy during the last ten years or so. I would like you to let me finish before you give us your answer. What I am going to tell the world in a few hours time is the following."
And he began.
Twenty minutes later, after a brief and abbreviated history of the SGC and the current problems Earth faced in the galaxy he asked her.
"As you can see, we are in dire need and will need allies. Earth is at war, and nothing will be able to change that. Consider also this. We have not engaged in any military activities so far that did not have a profound cause. Whether it was the Goa'uld System Lords, the Ori or the Twelve Colonies of Kobol. Never have we desired war, but it was always thrust upon us, and we had to take up arms to protect our very being from slavery, injustice, tyranny or just plain and simple extermination. We are willing to share our technologies with you. In response we ask that Germany lend its considerable economic weight behind our cause and aid us with soldiers when the time comes to take the fight to the colonies. We will also invoke article five of the NATO treaty, by which you are bound to aid us, should we be in need, and we are in need."
The assembled politicians he had just spoken too were still dazed and slack-jawed. Finally one recovered faster than the rest and turned towards the president asking him.
"Mr. President, your story is nice and well; yet even giving us the technology will do us little good. With the exception of these fighters most of these technologies you have mentioned seem to depend on one or two minerals not native to this planet. Therefore, if you'll allow me to ask, what use will we be? Yes we will able to send troops, but we will obviously be entirely dependent on the United States or the other IOA countries willing to sell us the needed materials. No Mr. President, if you truly want Germany as your ally and partner in these interstellar wars, you are currently engaged in, then you will have to give us something more, something more substantial that does not make us dependent of the whims of the members of the IOA."
Looking at the now earnest faces, Hayes inwardly winced. Although he could see real concern about the situation in the eyes of the people he was speaking to, he could also see the telltale glitter of calculated greed in their eyes. And yet, it was in a sense not only natural and right off them to try and get the best deal for their country but it also showed the shortcomings the stargate program had in the most brutal way imaginable. The pure necessity that made the SGC so highly classified also meant that the face of Earth given to alien societies was a completely different one than what it was in reality. It also meant that large scale industrial operations were out of question due to the amount of material and personnel needed. Building a ship of the Daedalus- class took time, doubly so because the materials had to be procured and then the ship had to be built in secret. If Earth was serious in fighting an interstellar war against a technological similar enemy who could not be destroyed be the decapitation of its head (such as was the case with Goa'uld or the original Ori), then this would entail fleet engagements and forced landings followed up with a land war; and this across half a galaxy, with thousands of planets under the enemies' control. And all the while they had an advanced human society as their enemy diverting resources from the real threat when they would have been better off as allies with Earth. Not for the first time did Henry Hayes inwardly curse the Colonials' timing. And once again the problems that sudden disclosure brought reared their ugly head. And these people were some of their closest allies! Another inner cringe was brought on as he thought of the price other nations may exact.
Regaining his inner composure so that it matched his outwardly shown stoic features Hayes answered.
"I understand your position and know how hard this revelation is to take. I had to go through the same, when I was briefed about the DGC and its operations when I became president. Now obviously we have the problem, that disclosure will be sudden and not gradual as planned. Still Earth's needs are great and with this new development we will soon be hard pressed to find men and ships. Now the thing is, that this is officially off the record, meaning I cannot promise you anything officially as an alliance controls the stargate program. BUT.." and here he took a deep breath, squarely looking his opposites in the eyes.
"The United States of America has been shouldering the majority of the burden for the last few years, and as such we have considerable influence, no to mention that the current tactical position favours us immensely and thus I am able to give you pretty good certainties, in exchange for your assistance. I will propose a refit of captured ships and the lease of several ships from a friendly nation. With these and the stargate we will begin to set up several more new bases in systems that although explored are uninhabited and which do not possess any sort of military presence. These will be primarily mining operations. We will set up basic quarters and living arrangements for workers at the mineral deposits and then utilize the heavy ships as transports to transport heavy equipment. For all of the possibilities a stargate gives us, mining on a industrial capacity is not something that can be done, as the equipment is far too big, indeed, even those Colonial ships will have to be stripped out, if we want to transport something like a bucket-wheel excavator or the gigantic trucks used in mines. You and the other countries we will contact will be given several planets to set up mining operations each. On a few conditions though. Currently naquadah, trinium and neutronium are military grade metals. We need them first and foremost for military purposes. Of course though with naquadah being a key component for hyperdrive engines and shielding, both of them utterly necessary for space travel, naquadah at least will also have to be brought into the civilian sector for use. Now listen carefully on my demands, for they are non- negotiable. All of the aforementioned minerals are classified as military grade materials. You can use them, to build ships of your own, but these ships will be under overall control of HWS, though you nominally still own them and run them. This is to make sure that every ship of every power is always accounted for, and nobody makes and stupid moves to establish dominance out there, where the IOA cannot control them. Subsequently that also means, that every grain of the aforementioned materials are, until further notice, accounted for everybody to see and control for. And yes I will deliver these terms to the other IOA nations as well and if I have too, force them to acknowledge these terms. We cannot enter into an arms race in space. It would completely destroy our reputation and critically weaken us at the most inopportune time. Furthermore you can equip civilian transports with Ion engines, hyperdrives and shielding. BUT everything will be of a severely toned down version. Furthermore, any other alien technology is out of question, save perhaps the rings, as they can be useful. You will also be beholden to instantly contact the SGC, should you come upon a piece of alien technology, even ruins, as we have experience in dealing with such items. The IOA will also have a permanent presence on your mining outposts. For this, we ask you to join us in an alliance to defeat the Twelve Colonies of Kobol and the renegade Ori remnant and any other threat that comes our way and threatens Earth. You may build a fleet, though it and any soldiers sent to fight for the common cause will be under joint command, we invite you to join the SGC and thus give you a chance to learn of the universes secrets with us, and to profit from any new technology that may be found or developed, as you of yourself will receive such technology as soon as you have signed the IOA treaty. Yes, you will become part of the IOA, though I am not sure about how you will be integrated and how the issue will be handled on decisions. Currently I suppose, that the IOA will probably allow you to attend their meetings, even voice your opinions, though probably bar you from voting. This is an issue though that will have to be addressed at a later date and for now at least, it will be necessary to save the face of the IOA nations."
Looking at the president she was speaking too live and seemingly face to face, when he was just a picture on a screen Angela Merkel paused. The offer was acceptable, even if not being overly generous. And considering that Germany was bound by the NATO treaty to enter in the war against, at least the Colonies of Kobol, the offer granted Germany a place amongst those nations capable of reaching to the stars. And even though, the introduction of alien technology was as of now a no-go, it still had great possibilities. For the mining and refining process and the establishment of several colonies (which they were in effect) would create a multitude of new jobs, and do the state a world of good, even with the now upcoming war, which was bound to be costly. So she answered.
"A few questions first, before I give you anything. First of all is the question of nationality. You said that we would be given several worlds to exploit their resources so as to help with the war effort. The people living there, maybe even settling there will obviously come from Germany: As such they will be considered if not colonies then at least outlying departments, similar to the overseas departments of France, such as Reunion. Thus they will be bound by German law and practices and be German citizens. Consequentially, this means, that these planets will be considered part of Germany. It also means that the IOA will have to have an embassy on the planet and any military forces stationed there permanently will have to have exterritorial barracks. It also means regulated immigration, at least for the first few years. Should they want to become independent one day, then it shall be a matter of primarily Germany first and only secondarily a matter of the IOA, the UN and the Security Council. Secondly you only mentioned three minerals. All other resources, once again save those three or any other material that might be found and declared as of military value, will be ours to trade with. The exception of course being uranium, as we have been told that your ships are equipped with a multitude of nuclear weaponry. Therefore we will voluntarily add uranium to the list of military materials. Thirdly of course is the question of trade with other planets and civilizations. Not of technology of course, we will hold you to that, but of non-military grade goods and materials. What is your stance about these three things?"
With a rather intense glare she fixed the presidents whose frown had been ever increasing.
As he listened to the questions and demands sprung at him he could feel a mighty headache come up. True, the suggestions had a lot of merit most importantly the one where the new worlds, colonies for lack of better understanding, would be governed by the countries that had originally settled them, giving them a clear and well practised routine. It'd also mean, that the costs of developing these worlds would have to be shouldered by the respective countries that settled the planets. There were some problems though still with the concept.
"I agree, that your stipulations are well thought over. However there are some issues to be addressed. There will be no research into weapons technology or any facilities on these planets. Such research will only be allowed to be conducted in special bases and facilities directly overseen by the IOA and run and attached to the SGC. You will also agree to create a new agency, similar to the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) that controls the mining and distribution of all materials deemed military grade and who will make sure that weapons research will only be carried out in sanctioned places. If you agree to this, then the United States will agree to such stipulations too and 'convince' the other nations to contribute to this agency as well. It will be answerable only to the IOA. What you do with the resources found on your planets, is your choice, you may sell them on the open market and use them as you see fit. As of trade with other planets; you have to understand, that many other planets are far more primitive when it comes to infrastructure and as such many products we may have to offer them are of no use to them. There will also be a great discussion concerning their development and the potential for abuse."
Here he stopped to massage his temples; he could really feel that headache coming up. A moment later he continued.
"I agree with you, the potential for trade is there, and certainly something that can and should be exploited, but frankly said, I do not think it is possible at the moment. Many of our allies and trading partners have been conquered by the Ori and are still occupied and the potential risks are too great, which means the United States will not support such an endeavour, at least not for now. But as said before, we will be allies with the same rights and duties, which means that neither will any other country trade with other planets, at least that is what we will propose. But trade between the new worlds set up by the various countries and of course Earth is perfectly acceptable. Now, there is one last stipulation that I'd like to implement. You will be investing in your forces, especially into the space forces but also possibly into defence or ground forces. As long as all materials which are considered military grade are properly accounted for, we will not stop you from building factories to produce weapons; this should help us to equip the forces we will need. And lastly, I have one last favour to ask. Would it be alright to use this treaty as a blueprint for further negotiations with the other nations we will contact?"
Giving a slight smile and nod Angela Merkel nodded.
"I cannot promise it outright, but I strongly suspect that this treaty will be ratified by parliament. We also offer help in dealing with the wounded from the battle. There is only one thing that I would like to add to the treaty. And that is the clause, that the current IOA does not have the right to veto and that any further additions to the ranks of the countries who the technology is given has to be agreed upon by all others via a majority. Countries that wish to join should also have to apply and go through a process of evaluation, similar to the one countries have to through in order to become a member of the EU or join the Euro zone. Currency wise, the new territories use the currency utilized in their home country. The terms one must achieve before being eligible to join will have to be determined later, but they must include civil rights and other values that we hold dear, as well as the stop to any oppressive actions. The only exceptions to this rule are obviously the original IOA member. There must also be a way to utilize sanctions against those members who violate this treaty. It is elemental that these terms be added and will go a long way to earn our friendship and trust and the acceptance of this treaty to the populace."
Henry Hayes just stared at the screen that showed the German chancellor and the delegations of the other parties sitting in the Bundestag. Blinking, unbelieving he stared. The implications behind these words… Without a right of one single country to veto actions, this new UN- like organization, which was what the IOA would eventually become, would have far more power and influence on the world at large. And with the current tactical situation…
"Agreed, chancellor Merkel. Though in exchange for implementing this article, the premier members of the IOA will have more votes, in fact every member of the IOA will we allotted a number of votes based on importance, which in turn is based upon contribution, size and economic strength, with a fixed maximal number of votes, while the premier members will possess exactly thirty five percent of all votes that the secondary members such as you possess together or the maximum number of votes one can be allotted plus fifteen percent if the amount of votes otherwise given to them is smaller than the possible maximum of votes.. Also on major issues a majority of two thirds is needed to pass."
Blanching at the demand, as everyone knew exactly what this meant. Although no formal veto was allowed, in reality if all five countries banded together, then they had the power to block of every major issue. Still, with reality being what it was, it seemed unlikely that the premier members of the IOA would be continuously successful in banding together and warding off the other countries and so Merkel said only one word.
"Deal!"
"Excellent, Mrs Merkel, I am happy to have your and Germany's cooperation. After my speech of disclosure at 8 pm your time, from the European Parliament in Brussels, You will receive a formal invitation to join the IOA and to join us in our alliance against the dangers that wish to destroy Earth, so that you may sign the Gate-Treaty and the treaty that welcomes you to the IOA, and so that we may begin the process of sharing our technology with you. This also means that you will have to find those scientists who will be able to actively contribute to our joint effort and who will be needed to get you going." Henry Hayes happily exclaimed.
"Should you wish for further information about the IOA, or the SGC or just generally need help, then please contact your european colleagues in the IOA, as the United States will have their hands full in the next few days," here a bitter smile graced his lips, and everybody knew what he was referring too, "though I will of course be perfectly willing to help out too."
With that he ended the connection and the picture went black.
On board the Odyssey Henry Hayes leant back and stretched his tired muscles. Turning around to an aide he asked.
"Do you have the transcription of this conversation? We need to contact several more countries today, before disclosure."
It was going to be a long day.
The same time, small room, Odyssey
General O'Neill had to admit that his opposite was good. Not only was she a capable strategist in battle, from what he got of her account of the battle that had happened just hours before, no she also seemed to know how to play the political game as well. This woman was definitely somebody to watch. He had noticed her taking in every little detail of the ship as she was led through to the tiny meeting room. She had also informed him, that two more senior officers had so far survived the battle, but that once they were up and about again, her authority would be greatly diminished.
Deciding that it didn't matter, if only they moved fast enough, O'Neill had astonished Helena Cain by holding a virtual conference with several ground based generals from Great Britain and France and had arranged that several thousand wounded, mostly lighter cases as field equipment for serious injuries took some time to set up, although some major cases would be transported directly to several military hospitals, would be sent down in a first wave. Several thousand more would be transported over the next hours as more resources would be available and O'Neill and Cain agreed to stay permanently in contact, so as to better coordinate the relief efforts.
On an impulse O'Neill offered Cain to transport both Admirals Cunningham and Nagala down to the military hospitals in the first wave, leaving her in overall command of the fleet until they could all be transported downside and interred.
Shrewdly recognizing the move as a political one Helena Cain agreed, as it'd let her keep control of ALL ships in orbit, as O'Neill informed her of the status of the invasion fleet. The idea suited both fine, Cain would be given the fleet and be able to take proper stock of what still remained and take control of all colonial forces still in orbit, strengthening her future position when in custody, while O'Neill and Earth gained, while not an ally, a pragmatist who would take control of the remnants of the colonial fleet, leaving him and the rest of Earth's defensive forces to concentrate on other more pressing matters.
Parting respectfully, if not cordially, Cain was led back to a waiting raptor, which would take her back to Pegasus. Thinking about the meeting and what had transpired; Helena Cain could not suppress a slight smirk. She herself had seen what the ships of the Thirteenth could do (or Tau'ri or even Terrans as they preferred to be called as O'Neill had privately explained to her that the whole concept of the thirteen tribes was not only unknown on Earth, no it was also impossible considering the scientific evidence), and was now more than ever convinced that they would win the war against the Twelve Colonies of Kobol. She had also deduced, that Earth was at war with another power and so had inwardly decided to hope that the war with her home system was soon finished and although she inwardly winced, as she thought about the death and destruction that would be wrought by the Tau'ri on her people to defeat them, the thoughts only served to fuel her anger at the President, the Quorum and the Admiralty. She had seen what technology could do, and as allies of the Tau'ri and with access to even some of their technology such as their shielding the Colonies would finally be able to bring retribution to the Cylons and avenge the dead of the Cylon War.
With this pleasing thought in mind Helena Cain, enjoyed her flight back to Pegasus.
1635 hrs (GMT) CiC Pegasus
Having finally back aboard Pegasus, Helena Cain had checked on the port and starboard hangars. While starboard was crammed with Vipers and Raptors, including many brutally savaged and damaged ones from several ships, who had ditched theirs to have space to lay down all the wounded and dead, port had been turned into a makeshift field hospital into which men and women from all over the fleet had been lain, to take the strain of their own ships. Walking through the ranks of wounded the dreadful noises of wailing, moaning and screams assaulted her, while the smell of antiseptics, blood and burned and charred flesh nearly made her gag.
Steeling herself and suppressing the urge to vomit, she saw dozens of doctors and corpsmen walk through the wounded trying to ease their pain and suffering while in the corner next to th provisional operations tables set up already a pile of amputated limbs had formed. A steady stream of people were coming and going. Arrivals generally had their hands full with medical supplies or more wounded while departing people when alone hurried to get more supplies or to take dirtied sheets back to the laundry while those that went in pairs generally had a body slung in a body bag, taking it somewhere where the dead were "stored" for the time being.
Giving nods of acknowledgement to the soldiers lying on the floor and the doctors and corpsmen in return for their greetings and salutes, she took a peek at the operations area, to giver herself a better look when she saw something that horrified her.
On a table where several men were seated taking the names of the wounded and their condition a box stood. It had once housed medical supplies, though those had already been long used. It's current content was far grislier.
Dog tags.
Many dog tags, showing how many men and women had not made it, even though Cain could see how hard the doctors and corpsmen were working.
She had known that there would be many dead, but seeing these dog tags in this box, really brought it home. It broke her heart.
Just as she left the flight pod she saw an orderly come up to the table and drop another set of tags into the box.
The number grew.
By the time she arrived in CiC she felt drained, though she steeled herself as she knew all too well that the worst was still to come, as she remembered giving her XO the task of getting a complete Butcher's Bill. She was inwardly dreading reading the list.
Taking in a deep breath she entered the CiC once again.
Whew, this chapter just didn't want to be finished and continued to grow and grow. I will try and keep my own political opinions to myself as much as possible, so please no bashing. I apologize for the lack of action, but the chapter is already over 18 pages long (the pure chapter) and over 12000 words long. I thank all reviewers. I got 35 reviews for chapter 3 alone, and am now featured on 64 favourites and 87 alerts. I LOVE you guys!! Continue Please!
Anyway this chapter was to show into what direction Earth will have to go, and how many angles there are to be covered. Honestly, I thought "Just a quick conversation and then you have a treaty…" but then it expanded as I realized just how complex politics truly are ( and I am sure, that I have only scratched the surface) and that even friends and allies all have their hidden agendas and are at ground level egoists. It then got worse when I realized that I had set this in 2010 (so you have something to look forward as the year progress!) and the political realities are murder, especially when coupled with the stargate. I only need to point out China as a member of the IOA and having the Sun Tzu…(have fun imaging THAT particular political nightmare). I am also shown to be a bit of an idealist as can be seen in this chapter, but also know that pragmatical ruthlessness is something that along with greed runs this chapter.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter.
In the next one we get a better look at the impact around Earth with the influx of the Colonials, Disclosure and the battle continues on Earth's ground.
See you until then!!